Stay positive with Commanders for Christmas Eve showdown vs 49ers

Saturday’s Christmas Eve game for the Washington Commanders could re-ignite their playoff hopes, and a loss could silence those dreams rather suddenly.  However, there are some reasons why fans should have hope and optimism.

Last Sunday night’s game against the Giants put a serious dent in the Commanders’ postseason plans, but Saturday’s encounter against the 49ers could change the itinerary in Washington’s favor.

First, stud defensive end Chase Young is set to return to the lineup and make his season debut.  This should fire up the team and have a positive overall effect and Young has been yearning to return for several weeks.  Count this news as a positive.

Why Commanders fans should be positive heading into Christmas Eve showdown vs the 49ers.

Second, Taylor Heinicke has an uncanny ability to produce in big-time games and a Herculean effort is needed more than ever this Saturday.  Don’t be surprised if he turns in a solid effort and proves the doubters wrong once again.

Third, the team is angry about their performance last Sunday and wants to prove that it was just a temporary setback.  Look for the team to put forth a much better effort this week.

Fourth, the team has gone through peaks and valleys this season.  A great opening-day victory.  Misery and close calls for four straight games.  A magical playoff run.  A devastating loss to a division rival.  So, what’s next?  Any scenario is possible, but the pendulum is certainly going to swing the other way on Saturday.  Right?

Fifth, the newly-selected Pro Bowl players want to make a good impression on Sunday, and the team should rally around them. Punter Tress Way, defensive tackle Jon Allen, special teams ace Jeremy Reaves, and wide receiver Terry McLaurin were all named as Pro Bowlers on Wednesday.  Their leadership will propel the Commanders to an inspiring victory.

And if you haven’t seen Ron Rivera break the news to Reaves yet, do yourself a favor (but bring a box of tissues before hitting play).

Sixth, the 49ers are wounded heading into this game.  Starting quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo is injured and lost for the season.  Wide receiver Deebo Samuel is injured and will not play.  These injuries are unfortunate, but they could benefit the Commanders on Sunday.

The message is clear and simple – don’t give up on the season.  We’ve given you six reasons to be optimistic.  The Commanders can win this game and have a good chance of doing so on Saturday.  Stay positive!  See you as we go along.